Why we don't all develop posttraumatic stress disorder

(Image: Pixabay CC0) A study by researchers at EPFL shows why only a subset of individuals exposed to trauma develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The research, centered on the body's stress hormone response, could pave the way for more targeted treatments for PTSD. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that arises after experiencing traumatic events. While many people experience trauma, only about 25-35% develop PTSD. Understanding the factors that make certain individuals more susceptible is crucial for both prevention and treatment. A new study led by Carmen Sandi and Simone Astori at EPFL now reveals how the development of PTSD is influenced by glucocorticoids, hormones that our body releases in response to stress, like cortisol. The work provides significant insights into the behavioral and biological traits associated with PTSD vulnerability.